Dietary supplement compositions

ABSTRACT

This document provides dietary supplement compositions as well as methods for using dietary supplement compositions to control glucose levels. For example, a dietary supplement composition including chromium (e.g., Chromium Oligofructose Complex), a sweet potato extract, and one or more of a mulberry extract, a green tea extract, a cinnamon extract, or a ginseng extract (e.g., Korean Red Ginseng extract) are provided.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This document relates to dietary supplement compositions. For example, this document relates to methods and materials useful in supplementing the diet of humans or animals to help control blood glucose levels.

BACKGROUND

The blood sugar concentration or blood glucose level is the amount of glucose (sugar) present in the blood of a human or animal. Normally in mammals, the body maintains blood glucose levels at a reference range between about 3.6 and 5.8 mM (mmol/L, i.e., millimoles/liter). When healthy, the body's homeostatic mechanisms keep blood glucose levels within a narrow range. Blood sugar levels can vary over the course of the day and spike after a meal, particularly after a sugar-rich meal. Moreover, certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, can interrupt the body's homeostatic mechanisms that maintain blood glucose levels within a narrow range, thus blood glucose levels may spike even further after a meal for a diabetic. Severe stress, such as trauma, stroke, myocardial infarction, surgery, or illness, can also impact a body's hemostatic mechanisms. High blood sugar levels can have a variety of adverse health effects, including weight gain, kidney damage, neurological damage, cardiovascular damage, and retina damage.

SUMMARY

This document provides dietary supplement compositions that may be consumed with a meal or as a meal supplement to help control blood glucose concentrations. The ingredients of a dietary supplement composition provided herein can work in conjunction with the foods being consumed. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can improve the insulin response to a meal and also provide an additional source of glucose. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be a beverage or a powder adapted to be mixed with water to form a beverage.

Dietary supplement compositions provided herein can include a chromium, a sweet potato extract, and one or more of a mulberry extract, a green tea extract, a cinnamon extract, or a ginseng extract. A dietary supplement composition provided herein can increase the ability of insulin-sensitized cells to uptake glucose, reduce fasting blood glucose levels, lower the glycemic index of foods consumed therewith, reduce insulin resistance, improve glucose tolerance, up-regulate Glucokinase MRNA expression, activate insulin receptors, increase glycogen synthase activity, and/or stimulate the release of insulin. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can aid in insulin uptake/release, and support normal metabolism of blood sugar.

A dietary supplement composition can include a sweet potato extract, a chromium, and one or more ingredients selected from mulberry extract, a green tea extract, a cinnamon extract, and a ginseng extract. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein includes a sweet potato extract, a chromium, a mulberry extract, a green tea extract, a cinnamon extract, and a ginseng extract.

A dietary supplement composition provided herein can be in the form of a dry powder. For example the dry powder can be in the form a shake mix or included in a capsule. For example, a dry powder dietary supplement composition provided herein can be mixed with a liquid (e.g., water) to form a solution or aqueous slurry that can be consumed by a user as a beverage. In some cases, a dry powder dietary supplement composition provided herein can be packaged as a bulk product with or without a measuring spoon, as a single serving package containing an amount of a dry powder dietary supplement composition to be mixed with a liquid (e.g., 4 ounces water, 6 ounces water, 8 ounces water, 12 ounces water). In some cases, a dry powder dietary supplement composition provided herein includes between 0.1 weight percent and 2.0 weight percent of one or more sweet potato extracts. In some cases, a dry powder dietary supplement composition provided herein includes between 0.01 weight percent and 0.1 weight percent of a chromium containing compound. In some cases, a dry powder dietary supplement composition provided herein includes between 0.0001 and 0.001 weight percent elemental chromium. In some cases, a dry powder dietary supplement composition provided herein includes between 0.5 weight percent and 10 weight percent one or more mulberry extracts. In some cases, a dry powder dietary supplement composition provided herein includes between 0.1 weight percent and 5 weight percent one or more ginseng extracts. In some cases, a dry powder dietary supplement composition provided herein includes between 0.1 weight percent and 2 weight percent one or more cinnamon extracts. In some cases, a dry powder dietary supplement composition provided herein includes between 0.1 weight percent and 1.0 weight percent one or more green tea extracts. In some cases, a dry powder dietary supplement composition provided herein includes between 5 weight percent and 85 weight percent protein. In some cases, a dry powder dietary supplement composition provided herein includes between 5 weight percent and 35 weight percent soluble fiber.

A dietary supplement composition provided herein can be in the form of a beverage. A beverage dietary supplement composition provided herein can include a solution and/or a slurry. In some cases, a beverage dietary supplement composition provided herein can include at least 10 mg of a sweet potato extract per 8 fluid ounce serving of the beverage. In some cases, a beverage dietary supplement composition provided herein can include 1000 mg or less of a sweet potato extract per 8 fluid ounce serving of the beverage. In some cases, a beverage dietary supplement composition provided herein can include at least 10 μg of elemental chromium per 8 fluid ounce serving of the beverage. In some cases, a beverage dietary supplement composition provided herein can include 360 μg or less of elemental chromium per 8 fluid ounce serving of the beverage. In some cases, a beverage dietary supplement composition provided herein can include at least 50 mg of a mulberry extract per 8 fluid ounce serving of the beverage. In some cases, a beverage dietary supplement composition provided herein can include 5000 mg or less of a mulberry extract per 8 fluid ounce serving of the beverage. In some cases, a beverage dietary supplement composition provided herein can include at least 10 mg of a green tea extract per 8 fluid ounce serving of the beverage. In some cases, a beverage dietary supplement composition provided herein can include 1000 mg or less of a green tea extract per 8 fluid ounce serving of the beverage. In some cases, a beverage dietary supplement composition provided herein can include at least 10 mg of a cinnamon extract per 8 fluid ounce serving of the beverage. In some cases, a beverage dietary supplement composition provided herein can include 1000 mg or less of a cinnamon extract per 8 fluid ounce serving of the beverage. In some cases, a beverage dietary supplement composition provided herein can include at least 10 mg of a ginseng extract per 8 fluid ounce serving of the beverage. In some cases, a beverage dietary supplement composition provided herein can include 2000 mg or less of a ginseng extract per 8 fluid ounce serving of the beverage. For example, a beverage dietary supplement composition provided herein can include 1 to 20 mg of chromium oligofructose complex per 8 fluid ounce serving of the beverage, 400 to 800 mg mulberry extract per 8 fluid ounce serving of the beverage, 100 to 300 mg sweet potato extract per 8 fluid ounce serving of the beverage, 50 to 200 mg green tea extract per 8 fluid ounce serving of the beverage, 100 to 300 mg cinnamon extract per 8 fluid ounce serving of the beverage, and 100 to 400 mg ginseng extract per 8 fluid ounce serving of the beverage.

A dietary supplement composition provided herein can be in the form of a tablet, bar, soup, soup mix, or other suitable ingestible carrier as is known in the art, For example, a bar, a can of soup, or a packaged soup mix can include a dietary supplement composition provided herein. In some cases, a bar, a can of soup, or a packaged soup mix provided herein can include at least 10 mg of a sweet potato extract. In some cases, a bar, a can of soup, or a packaged soup mix provided herein can include 1000 mg or less of a sweet potato extract. In some cases, a bar, a can of soup, or a packaged soup mix provided herein provided herein can include at least 10 μg of elemental chromium. In some cases, a bar, a can of soup, or a packaged soup mix provided herein can include 360 μg or less of elemental chromium. In some cases, a bar, a can of soup, or a packaged soup mix provided herein can include at least 50 mg of a mulberry extract. In some cases, a bar, a can of soup, or a packaged soup mix provided herein can include 5000 mg or less of a mulberry extract. In some cases a bar, a can of soup, or a packaged soup mix provided herein can include at least 10 mg of a green tea extract. In some cases, a bar, a can of soup, or a packaged soup mix provided herein can include 1000 mg or less of a green tea extract. In some cases, a bar, a can of soup, or a packaged soup mix provided herein can include at least 10 mg of a cinnamon extract. In some cases, a bar, a can of soup, or a packaged soup mix provided herein can include 1000 mg or less of a cinnamon extract. In some cases, a bar, a can of soup, or a packaged soup mix provided herein can include at least 10 mg of a ginseng extract.

In some cases, a bar, a can of soup, or a packaged soup mix provided herein can include 2000 mg or less of a ginseng extract. For example, a bar, a can of soup, or a packaged soup mix provided herein can include 50 to 180 μg chromium oligofructose complex, 400 to 800 mg mulberry extract, 100 to 300 mg sweet potato extract, 50 to 200 mg green tea extract, 100 to 300 mg cinnamon extract, and 100 to 400 mg ginseng extract.

A dietary supplement composition provided herein can include additional ingredients such as fillers, thickeners, proteins, creamers, sweeteners, flavorants, or a combination thereof. In some case, a dietary supplement composition can include between 5 to 25 grams of protein per serving. In some case, a dietary supplement composition can include less than 10 grams of total fat per serving. In some case, a dietary supplement composition can include less than 5 grams of sugars per serving. In some case, a dietary supplement composition can include less than 10 grams of soluble fiber per serving. In some cases, a serving can be 8 ounces of a beverage dietary supplement composition or an amount of dry powder dietary supplement composition intended to be mixed with a liquid to form a single serving. For example, 8 ounces of water could be combined with about 30 grams of a dry powder dietary supplement composition provided herein to form a beverage dietary supplement composition. In some cases, a container or package containing a dry powder dietary supplement composition provided herein can include a measuring scoop or spoon sized to measure out a single serving of a dry powder dietary supplement composition provided herein.

A dietary supplement composition provided herein can include one or more biologically active form of chromium. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include chromium oligofructose complex. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include chromium yeast. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include a chromium picolinate. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include a chromium chelate.

A dietary supplement composition provided herein can include phenols. In some cases, a green tea extract included in a dietary supplement composition provided herein includes less than 85% phenols. In some cases, a cinnamon extract included in a dietary supplement composition provided herein includes between 20% and 40% phenols.

A dietary supplement composition provided herein can include ginsenosides. In some cases, a ginseng extract included in a dietary supplement composition provided herein includes less than 20% ginsenosides. For example, a ginseng extract of a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include between 5% and 10% ginsenosides. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include Korean Red ginseng extract.

A dietary supplement composition provided herein can include an artificial sweetener. For example, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include a high intensity sweetener, such as saccharine, sucralose, aspartame, acesulfame potassium, or combinations thereof. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be substantially free of hydrogenated or trans fats. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be substantially free of corn syrup. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be substantially free of artificial colors, artificial flavors, and chemical preservatives. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be substantially free of vitamins or mineral fortification other than chromium.

A method for controlling blood glucose concentrations can include consuming a dietary supplement composition provided herein. In some cases, a method for controlling blood glucose concentrations provided herein can include consuming a dietary supplement composition provided herein with a meal. In some cases, a method for controlling blood glucose concentrations provided herein can include consuming a dietary supplement composition provided herein between meals.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used to practice the invention, suitable methods and materials are described below. All publications, patent applications, patents, and other references mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety. In case of conflict, the present specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

The details of one or more embodiments are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features and advantages will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a chart of the fasting glucose levels of test participants using a dietary supplement composition provided herein.

FIG. 2 is a chart of fatigue intensity levels of test participants using a dietary supplement composition provided herein.

FIG. 3 is a chart of appetite intensity levels of test participants using a dietary supplement composition provided herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

This document provides dietary supplement compositions that may be consumed with a meal or as a meal supplement to help control blood glucose concentrations. A dietary supplement composition provided herein can be taken with a meal or between meals. A dietary supplement compositions provided herein can be configured to include chromium, a sweet potato extract, and one or more of a mulberry extract, a green tea extract, a cinnamon extract, or a ginseng extract.

The ingredients of a dietary supplement composition provided herein can work in conjunction with the foods being consumed. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can improve the insulin response to a meal and can provide an additional source of glucose. A dietary supplement composition provided herein can be consumed between meals as a meal supplement.

In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be a beverage. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be provided in a powdered form that can be combined with a liquid to form a beverage. For example, a package can include between 10 grams and 100 grams of a dry powered form of a dietary supplement composition provided herein and can be designed to be mixed with water (or another consumable liquid) to form a beverage. A beverage including a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be an aqueous solution or slurry. In some case, a dietary supplement composition can be provided as an encapsulated product.

A dietary supplement composition provided herein can be in the form of a liquid, solution, suspension, pill, capsule, tablet, gel cap, powder, or gel. For oral administration, tablets or capsules can be prepared by conventional means with acceptable excipients such as binding agents, fillers, lubricants, disintegrants, or wetting agents. The tablets can be coated, if desired. Liquid preparations for oral administration can take the form of, for example, solutions, syrups, or suspension, or they can be presented as a dry product for constitution with saline or other suitable liquid vehicle before use. Dietary supplement compositions of the type described herein also can contain acceptable additives as will be understood by one skilled in the art depending on the particular form of the dietary composition. Non-limiting examples of such additives include suspending agents, emulsifying agents, non-aqueous vehicles, preservatives, buffer salts, flavoring, coloring, and sweetening agents as appropriate. Non-limiting examples of specific additives include: gelatin, glycerin, water, beeswax, lecithin, cocoa, caramel, titanium dioxide, or carmine. Preparations for oral administration also can be suitably formulated to give controlled release of the ingredients.

In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can contain an acceptable carrier for administration to a mammal (e.g., a human), including, without limitation, sterile aqueous or non-aqueous solutions, suspensions, and emulsions. Examples of non-aqueous solvents include, without limitation, propylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, vegetable oils, and injectable organic esters. Aqueous carriers include, without limitation, water, alcohol, saline, and buffered solutions. Acceptable carriers also can include physiologically acceptable aqueous vehicles (e.g., physiological saline) or other known carriers appropriate to specific routes of administration.

In some cases, the dietary composition can be included as a supplement in a carrier food form, for example in the form of a shake, bar, or soup. For example, a blend of ingredients provided herein can be incorporated into a base of soy crisps, syrups, sweeteners, and fiber sources to produce an extruded protein bar. In some cases, the product can be in the form of a chocolate bar (e.g., a chocolate protein bar). The chocolate bar can be dark chocolate, light chocolate, white chocolate, any other type of chocolate, or a mixture thereof. Optionally, caramel, peanut butter, or any of a variety of other flavorings or food products can be added to the bar. A bar can be, for example, about 50 grams in weight, and can provide one serving of pre-blend. A bar can be of greater or lesser weight (e.g., 25 or 100 grams), and can provide more or less and one serving of pre-blend (e.g. half a serving or two servings). The product can be coated or partially coated in chocolate (or other flavor), and each bar can be individually packaged. The product can be coated or partially coated in dark chocolate, light chocolate, any other type of chocolate, or a mixture thereof. The final product can be consumed as one serving as either a meal replacement or snack item.

In another example, a blend of ingredients provided herein can be added to a meal replacement shake base. The configuration of a suitable shake base is known in the art and will be apparent to one skilled in the art in view of the disclosure herein. The final shake can be any flavor (e.g., chocolate, vanilla, or strawberry). Final serving size can be, for example, 30 g to be dispersed into 8 ounces of milk or water (or other suitable liquid) to form one complete serving. Final serving size can be greater or lesser than 30 grams (e.g., 15 or 60 grams) and can provide more or less than one complete serving (e.g., half a serving or two servings).

A dietary supplement composition provided herein can include one or more biologically active form of chromium (Cr). A biologically active form of chromium (Cr) can participate in glucose metabolism by enhancing the effects of insulin. For example, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include a biologically active form of chromium such that the composition can increase the ability of an insulin-sensitized cell to uptake glucose. The biologically active form of chromium can be a low-molecular-weight chromium-binding substance (LMWCr). For example, a biologically active form of chromium can be a naturally-occurring oligo-peptide. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include chromium oligofructose complex. Chromium oligofructose complex can also be called chromium amino acid polyfructose complex. For example, chromium amino acid polyfructose complex is described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2010/0009901 (see e.g., paragraph 210), which is hereby incorporated by referenced. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include chromium yeast. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include a chromium picolinate. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include a chromium chelate.

Any appropriate amount of chromium can be included within a dietary supplement composition provided herein. For example, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include up to 360 μg of elemental chromium per serving (e.g., up to 300 μg/serving, up to 250 μg/serving, up to 200 μg/serving, up to 180 μg/serving, up to 150 μg/serving, or up to 120 μg/serving). In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include at least 10 μg of elemental chromium per serving (e.g., at least 20 μg/serving, at least 50 μg/serving, at least 80 μg/serving or at least 100 μg/serving). In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include between 20 μg and 360 μg of elemental chromium per serving, between 50 μg and 180 μg of elemental chromium per serving, between 80 μg and 150 μg of elemental chromium per serving, or between 100 μg and 120 μg of elemental chromium per serving. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be in the form of a beverage and the amounts per serving of elemental chromium described herein can be per 8 fluid ounce serving of that beverage. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be in a powdered form adapted to be mixed with a liquid to form a beverage and the amounts per serving of chromium described herein can be per 30 grams of the powdered dietary supplement composition. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be part of an encapsulated dietary supplement having the amounts per serving of chromium described herein.

In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be in a powdered form and include between 0.01 weight percent and 0.1 weight percent of a chromium containing compound (e.g., Chromium Oligofructose Complex) (e.g., between 0.02 weight percent and 0.08 weight percent, between 0.03 weigh percent and 0.06 weight percent, or between 0.04 weight percent and 0.05 weight percent). In some cases, a chromium containing compound in a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include between 0.1 and 50 weight percent elemental chromium (e.g., between 0.5 weight percent and 10 weight percent, or between 1 weigh percent and 5 weight percent).

When a dietary supplement composition provided herein is consumed, chromium can be stored within the consumer's body over the course of one or more days. Chromium can be maintained at a consistent ratio within the body. Chromium can be incorporated in protein structures (e.g., enzymes and hormones) for use within the body.

A dietary supplement composition provided herein can include one or more green tea extracts. Green and black tea both originate from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. Green tea is heated to inactivate the enzymes that would otherwise oxidize the freshly collected leaves. A dietary supplement composition provided herein can be configured to include a green tea extract in an amount effective to improve insulin response by making cells more tolerant and/or to increase cellular production of glucokinase, which can break down glucose for use as energy.

In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include a green tea extract that includes phenols. For example, a green tea extract incorporated into a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include at least 70% phenols (e.g., at least 80% phenols, at least 85% phenols, or between 85% and 95% phenols).

Any appropriate amount of green tea extract(s) can be included within a dietary supplement composition provided herein. For example, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include up to 1000 mg of green tea extract per serving (e.g., up to 800 mg/serving, up to 600 mg/serving, up to 400 mg/serving, up to 300 mg/serving, up to 200 mg/serving, or up to 150 mg/serving). In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include at least 10 mg of green tea extract per serving (e.g., at least 25 mg/serving, at least 50 mg/serving, at least 75 mg/serving, or at least 100 mg/serving). In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include between 10 and 1000 mg of green tea extract per serving, between 25 and 400 mg of green tea extract per serving, between 50 and 200 mg of green tea extract per serving, or between 100 and 150 mg of green tea extract per serving.

In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be in the form of a beverage and the amounts per serving of green tea extract(s) described herein can be per 8 fluid ounce serving of that beverage. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be in a powdered form adapted to be mixed with a liquid to form a beverage and the amounts per serving of green tea extract(s) described herein can be per 30 grams of the powdered dietary supplement composition. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be part of an encapsulated dietary supplement having the amounts per serving of green tea extract(s) described herein.

In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be in a powdered form and include between 0.1 weight percent and 1.0 weight percent green tea extract(s) (e.g., between 0.2 weight percent and 0.8 weight percent, between 0.3 weigh percent and 0.6 weight percent, or between 0.4 weight percent and 0.5 weight percent).

A dietary supplement composition provided herein can include one or more cinnamon extracts. A dietary supplement composition provided herein can be configured to include a cinnamon extract in an amount effective to increase a body's ability to make glycogen. Cinnamomum verum is a small evergreen tree, the bark of which is a common culinary spice. Most cinnamon sold in the United States and Canada is actually derived from C. aromaticum or C. cassia, sometimes called “Chinese cinnamon” to distinguish it from C. verum. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include an extract from Cinnamomum verum, Cinnamomum aromaticum, and/or Cinnamomum cassia.

In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include a cinnamon extract that includes phenols. For example, a cinnamon extract incorporated into a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include between 10% and 50% phenols (e.g., between 20% and 40% phenols, between 25% and 35% phenols, between 28% and 32% phenols, or about 30% phenols).

Any appropriate amount of cinnamon extract(s) can be included within a dietary supplement composition provided herein. For example, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include up to 1000 mg of cinnamon extract per serving (e.g., up to 800 mg/serving, up to 600 mg/serving, up to 400 mg/serving, up to 300 mg/serving, up to 250 mg/serving, or up to 225 mg/serving). In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include at least 10 mg of cinnamon extract per serving (e.g., at least 50 mg/serving, at least 100 mg/serving, at least 150 mg/serving, or at least 175 mg/serving). In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include between 10 and 1000 mg of cinnamon extract per serving, between 50 and 600 mg of cinnamon extract per serving, between 100 and 300 mg of cinnamon extract per serving, or between 175 and 225 mg of cinnamon extract per serving.

In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be in the form of a beverage and the amounts per serving of cinnamon extract(s) described herein can be per 8 fluid ounce serving of that beverage. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be in a powdered form adapted to be mixed with a liquid to form a beverage and the amounts per serving of cinnamon extract(s) described herein can be per 30 grams of the powdered dietary supplement composition. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be part of an encapsulated dietary supplement having the amounts per serving of cinnamon extract(s) described herein.

In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be in a powdered form and include between 0.1 weight percent and 2.0 weight percent cinnamon extract(s) (e.g., between 0.2 weight percent and 1.5 weight percent, between 0.3 weigh percent and 1.0 weight percent, between 0.4 weigh percent and 0.8 weight percent, or between 0.5 weight percent and 0.7 weight percent).

A dietary supplement composition provided herein can include one or more mulberry extracts. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include an extract from the Mulberry leaf (e.g., Morus alba L. or Morus alba). In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include a mulberry extract that includes 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ).

A dietary supplement composition provided herein can be configured to include a mulberry extract in an amount effective to lower the glycemic index of foods consumed with a dietary supplement composition provided herein. Lowering the glycemic index of foods can reduce the release of insulin, which can result in a more even control of blood glucose levels.

Any appropriate amount of mulberry extract(s) can be included within a dietary supplement composition provided herein. For example, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include up to up to 5000 mg of mulberry extract per serving (e.g., up to 4000 mg/serving, up to 3000 mg/serving, up to 2000 mg/serving, up to 1000 mg/serving, up to 800 mg/serving, or up to 650 mg/serving). In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include at least 50 mg of mulberry per serving (e.g., at least 100 mg/serving, at least 200 mg/serving, at least 400 mg/serving, or at least 550 mg/serving). In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include between 50 and 5000 mg of mulberry extract per serving, between 200 and 1000 mg of mulberry extract per serving, between 400 and 800 mg of mulberry extract per serving, or between 550 and 650 mg of mulberry extract per serving.

In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be in the form of a beverage and the amounts per serving of mulberry extract(s) described herein can be per 8 fluid ounce serving of that beverage. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be in a powdered form adapted to be mixed with a liquid to form a beverage and the amounts per serving of mulberry extract(s) described herein can be per 30 grams of the powdered dietary supplement composition. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be part of an encapsulated dietary supplement having the amounts per serving of mulberry extract(s) described herein.

In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be in a powdered form and include between 0.5 weight percent and 10 weight percent mulberry extract(s) (e.g., between 1.0 weight percent and 5.0 weight percent, between 1.5 weigh percent and 3.0 weight percent, between 1.8 weigh percent and 2.3 weight percent, or between 2.0 weight percent and 2.1 weight percent).

A dietary supplement composition provided herein can include one or more sweet potato extracts. A dietary supplement composition provided herein can be configured to include a sweet potato extract in an amount effective to stabilize blood sugar levels, lower insulin resistance, and/or improve metabolic control in type 2 diabetic patients. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include a sweet potato extract that includes phytic acid. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include a sweet potato extract that includes fiber, complex carbohydrates, protein, vitamins A and C, iron, and/or calcium. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include a sweet potato extract that includes a peptic substance. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include a sweet potato extract that includes uronic acid and/or methoxyl. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include a sweet potato extract that includes phytin, monoaminophosphatides (e.g., probably lecithin and cephalin), organic acids (e.g., oxalic acid), phytosterolin, phytosterol, resins, tannins, and coloring matter. In some cases, the sweet potato extract in the dietary supplement compositions provided herein can be an extract of Caiapo. In some cases, the sweet potato extract in the dietary supplement compositions provided herein can be an extract of Ipomoea batatas (a white-skinned sweet potato). In some cases, sweet potato extract can enhance the effect of chromium.

Any appropriate amount of sweet potato extract(s) can be included within a dietary supplement composition provided herein. For example, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include up to up to 1000 mg of sweet potato extract per serving (e.g., up to 800 mg/serving, up to 600 mg/serving, up to 400 mg/serving, up to 300 mg/serving, up to 250 mg/serving, or up to 225 mg/serving). In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include at least 10 mg of sweet potato extract per serving (e.g., at least 50 mg/serving, at least 100 mg/serving, at least 150 mg/serving, or at least 175 mg/serving). In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include between 10 and 1000 mg of sweet potato extract per serving, between 50 and 600 mg of sweet potato extract per serving, between 100 and 300 mg of sweet potato extract per serving, or between 175 and 225 mg of sweet potato extract per serving.

In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be in the form of a beverage and the amounts per serving of sweet potato extract(s) described herein can be per 8 fluid ounce serving of that beverage. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be in a powdered form adapted to be mixed with a liquid to form a beverage and the amounts per serving of sweet potato extract(s) described herein can be per 30 grams of the powdered dietary supplement composition. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be part of an encapsulated dietary supplement having the amounts per serving of sweet potato extract(s) described herein.

In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be in a powdered form and include between 0.1 weight percent and 2.0 weight percent sweet potato extract(s) (e.g., between 0.2 weight percent and 1.5 weight percent, between 0.3 weigh percent and 1.0 weight percent, between 0.4 weigh percent and 0.8 weight percent, or between 0.5 weight percent and 0.7 weight percent).

A dietary supplement composition provided herein can include one or more ginseng extracts. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include red ginseng extract (e.g., Korean Red Ginseng extract). In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include Panax ginseng extract. A dietary supplement composition provided herein can be configured to include a ginseng extract in an amount effective to increase the release of insulin with consumption of glucose, to protect beta cells, and/or improve glucose and insulin regulation. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein includes ginseng extract combined with chromium and mulberry extract and can function to provide efficient energy deployment within a consumer's body.

Red ginseng refers to the way the ginseng is prepared. For example, red ginseng can be prepared by steam-curing aged and un-peeled ginseng roots. In some cases, ginseng roots can be aged for about 6 years prior to steam-curing. In some cases, ginseng can be steam-curing using standard boiling temperatures of about 100° C. In some case, the steam-cured ginseng can be dried. Steam-curing can give the ginseng a glossy reddish-brown color when dried. In some cases, steaming the root can prevent the breakdown of active ingredients.

In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include ginseng extract that includes one or more ginsenosides. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include ginseng extract that includes between 1% and 20% ginsenosides (e.g., between 3% and 15% ginsenosides, or between 5% and 10% ginsenosides). For example, Korean red ginseng extract can include about 7 percent ginsenosides. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include ginseng extract that includes ginsenoside Rg1 and/or ginsenoside Rg3. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include Ginsenoside Rg3 in an amount effective to increase glucose uptake both in the basal and insulin-induced states of L6 myotubes, to improve insulin signaling and glucose uptake, or to suppress the progression of type 2 diabetes by inhibiting FFA-mediated loss of beta-cells.

Any appropriate amount of sweet potato extract(s) can be included within a dietary supplement composition provided herein. For example, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include up to up to 1000 mg of ginseng extract per serving (e.g., up to 800 mg/serving, up to 600 mg/serving, up to 400 mg/serving, up to 300 mg/serving, up to 250 mg/serving, or up to 225 mg/serving). In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include at least 10 mg of ginseng extract per serving (e.g., at least 50 mg/serving, at least 100 mg/serving, at least 150 mg/serving, or at least 175 mg/serving). In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include between 10 and 1000 mg of ginseng extract per serving, between 50 and 600 mg of ginseng extract per serving, between 100 and 300 mg of ginseng extract per serving, or between 175 and 225 mg of ginseng extract per serving.

In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be in the form of a beverage and the amounts per serving of ginseng extract(s) described herein can be per 8 fluid ounce serving of that beverage. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be in a powdered form adapted to be mixed with a liquid to form a beverage and the amounts per serving of ginseng extract(s) described herein can be per 30 grams of the powdered dietary supplement composition. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be part of an encapsulated dietary supplement having the amounts per serving of ginseng extract(s) described herein.

In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be in a powdered form and include between 0.1 weight percent and 5.0 weight percent ginseng extract(s) (e.g., between 0.3 weight percent and 3.0 weight percent, between 0.5 weigh percent and 1.5 weight percent, between 0.6 weigh percent and 1.0 weight percent, or between 0.8 weight percent and 0.9 weight percent).

A dietary supplement composition provided herein can include one or more additional ingredients. For example, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include protein, carbohydrates, soluble fiber, flavorants, artificial sweeteners, preservatives, fillers, thickeners, colorants, and any other food safe additive. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include one or more fillers or thickeners selected from the following: a hydroxyl containing compound, a dextrin or dextrin derivative, carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, calcium caseinate, konjac, collagen, inulin, casein, wheat gluten, carrageenan, alginates, propylene glycol alginate, xanthan, dextrin, pullulan, curdlan, gellan, locust bean gum, guar gum, tara gum, gum tragacanth, pectin, agar, zein, karaya, gelatin, psyllium seed, chitin, chitosan, gum acacia, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polyethylene oxide, polyvinyl alcohol, or a combination thereof. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include between 0 and 5 weight percent thickener(s). In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be substantially free of artificial colors, artificial flavors, and chemical preservatives.

A dietary supplement composition provided herein can include one or more proteins. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include between 5 and 25 grams of protein (e.g., about 10 grams of protein) per 8 fluid ounces of a dietary supplement beverage or for 30 grams of a powdered dietary supplement composition provided herein. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be in a powdered form and include between 5 weight percent and 85 weight percent protein(s) (e.g., between 10 weight percent and 50 weight percent, between 15 weigh percent and 35 weight percent, between 30 weigh percent and 60 weight percent, or between 10 weight percent and 20 weight percent). For example, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include between 10 weight percent and 13 weight percent of soy protein, between 8 weight percent and 10 weight percent whey protein concentration, and/or between 5 weight percent and 7 weight percent whey protein isolate. Examples of proteins that can be included in a dietary supplement composition provided herein include dairy protein, soy protein, whey protein, or a combination thereof.

In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include less than 10 grams of total fat. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be substantially free of hydrogenated or trans fats.

In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include less than 5 grams of sugars (e.g., less than 2 grams of sugars) per 8 fluid ounces of a dietary supplement beverage or for 30 grams of a powdered dietary supplement composition provided herein. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be in a powdered form and include less than 20 weight percent sugar(s) (e.g., less than 15 weight percent, less than 10 weight percent, or less than 5 weight percent). For example, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be free of added sugars. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be substantially free of corn syrup. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include high intensity sweeteners such as stevia, saccharin, aspartame, sucralose, or acesulfame potassium. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include less than 5 weight percent high intensity sweetener(s) (e.g., less than 1 weight percent high intensity sweetener(s)).

In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include less than 10 grams of soluble fiber (e.g., less than 6 grams of soluble fiber) per 8 fluid ounces of a dietary supplement beverage or for 30 grams of a powdered dietary supplement composition provided herein. In some cases, soluble fiber in the dietary supplement compositions provided herein can include maltodestrin fiber. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be in a powdered form and include less than 35 weight percent soluble fiber (e.g., less than 25 weight percent, less than 20 weight percent, less than 10 weight percent, between 5 weight percent and 35 weight percent soluble fiber, or between 15 weight percent and 25 weight percent soluble fiber).

In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be substantially free of vitamins or mineral fortification other than chromium. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include non-chromium vitamins or mineral fortifications.

A dietary supplement composition provided herein can have a variety of flavorants. For example, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include vanilla extract, cocoa powder, artificial vanilla flavorant, artificial chocolate flavorant, cream, dried cream extracts, or a combination thereof. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition can have a vanilla, chocolate or vanilla caramel flavor profile. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can include salt.

A method for controlling blood glucose concentrations can include consuming a dietary supplement composition provided herein. In some cases, a method for controlling blood glucose concentrations provided herein can include consuming a dietary supplement composition provided herein with a meal. For example, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can be consumed within 10 minutes of consuming a meal (e.g., within 5 minutes of consuming a meal or between bites of a meal). In some cases, a method for controlling blood glucose concentrations provided herein can include consuming a dietary supplement composition provided herein between meals. In some cases, a method for controlling blood glucose concentrations provided herein can include mixing a powdered dietary supplement composition with a liquid to make a beverage. For example, the powdered dietary supplement composition can be provided in a single serving package or in a bulk package.

A dietary supplement composition provided herein can increase the ability of insulin-sensitized cells to uptake glucose, reduce fasting blood glucose levels, lower the glycemic index of foods consumed therewith, reduce insulin resistance, improve glucose tolerance, up-regulate Glucokinase MRNA expression, activate insulin receptors, increase glycogen synthase activity, and/or stimulate the release of insulin. In some cases, a dietary supplement composition provided herein can aid in insulin uptake/release, and support normal metabolism of blood sugar.

EXAMPLES Example 1—Dietary Supplement Composition

A dietary supplement composition is produced to have the active ingredients shown in Table 1 as well as about 10 grams/serving of dairy and/or soy protein, less than 5 grams/serving of fat (with no hydrogenated or trans fats), less than 2 grams/serving of sugars (with no added sugars), and less than 6 grams/serving of soluble fibers. The serving size can be about 30 grams of dry powder or 8 fluid ounces.

TABLE 1 Active Ingredients Amount per serving Chromium 120 μg/serving Mulberry Extract (>1% DNJ) 600 mg/serving Sweet Potato Extract 200 mg/serving Green Tea Extract (>85% phenols) 120 mg/serving Cinnamon Extract (30% phenols) 200 mg/serving Korean Red Ginseng extract (7% 250 mg/serving ginsenosides)

Example 2—Dietary Supplement Composition

A dietary supplement composition is produced to have the ingredients shown in Table 2.

TABLE 2 PERCENT INGREDIENTS % w/w Oil Creamer (Non-Dairy) 18 to 22 Soy Protein 10 to 13 Whey Protein Concentrate  8 to 10 Whey Protein Isolate 5 to 7 Calcium Caseinate 5 to 7 Maltodextrin Fiber 15 to 25 Inulin 0 to 5 Thickener 0 to 5 High Intensity Sweetener 0 to 1 Salt 0 to 1 Flavorants  0 to 25 Chromium Oligofructose Complex 0.03 to 0.05 Mulberry Extract 1 to 3 Ginseng Extract 0.3 to 2  Cinnamon Bark Extract 0.2 to 2  Sweet Potato Powder 0.2 to 2  Green Tea Extract 0.1 to 1 

Example 3—Dietary Supplement Composition

A dietary supplement composition is produced to have the ingredients shown in Table 3.

TABLE 3 PERCENT INGREDIENTS % w/w Oil Creamer (Non-Dairy) 20 to 25 Soy Protein 10 to 13 Whey Protein Concentrate  8 to 12 Whey Protein Isolate 5 to 8 Calcium Caseinate 5 to 7 Maltodextrin Fiber 15 to 25 Inulin  5 to 15 Thickener 0 to 5 High Intensity Sweetener 0 to 1 Salt 0 to 2 Flavorants 0 to 5 Chromium Oligofructose Complex 0.03 to 0.05 Mulberry Extract 1 to 3 Ginseng 0.3 to 2  Cinnamon Bark Extract 0.2 to 2  Sweet Potato Powder 0.2 to 2  Green Tea 0.1 to 1 

Example 4—Testing of Dietary Supplement Compositions

A sample population of prediabetic participants, sufficient to establish a statistically valid confidence interval, took part in a 56-day study. After protocol approval by the Institutional Review Board, male and female subjects between 18-45 years of age were prescreened to meet the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Subjects with an A1C range of 5.5%-6.4% were eligible for the study. A1C levels of 5.6% or below are considered normal. A1C levels of 6.5% or greater are indicative of diabetes. A1C levels greater than 5.6% but less than 6.5% are in the range of prediabetes.

For each participant the study concluded after 56 days from enrollment and included four (4) follow-ups. Informed consent from each participant was obtained before being administrated dietary supplement compositions having the ingredients listed in Table 3.

On Day 0 (baseline), medical history and physical examinations were performed on all participants. Blood collections were performed at time points 0 (baseline), 90, and 150 minutes on Day 0. All participants fasted prior to testing. Each participant consumed the dietary supplement compositions having the ingredients listed in Table 3 immediately after time point 0 (baseline) and before time point 30 minutes. All study participants continued a 56-day treatment. Subsequent blood chemistries were performed on all participants on Days 28, 42 and 56 at time point 0 minutes, to be tested for the selected biomarkers.

Scored questionnaires, consisting of a psychometric response scale, were used to measure subjective data on Day 0 (baseline). All participants completed subsequent scored questionnaires on days 28, 42, and 56 to assess subjective levels of energy and satiety. The participants were given dietary supplement compositions similar to those provided in Examples 2 and 3 and told to take the product twice a day.

Unpaired t Test Results: The tested dietary supplement compositions showed the following results, shown in Table 4, when comparing baseline (Day 0) to end point (Day 56). There was a statistically significant reduction (p=0.00003) in A1C levels. There was a statistically significant reduction (p=0.00005) in serum glucose levels. There was a statistically significant reduction (p=0.0067) in insulin levels. There was a reduction in HOMA levels, but the reduction was not statistically significant (p=0.3540).

TABLE 4 Baseline Day 56 Improve- Vari- (MEAN ± (MEAN ± ment Normal able SE) SE) (%) Ranges HbA1C 5.859 ± 0.054 5.566 ± 0.054 5 4.6-5.4 mg/dl Glucose 102.6 ± 1.63  94.24 ± 1.55  8.14 70-100 mg/dL Insulin 53.7 ± 2.48 45.06 ± 1.80  16.08 2.6-24.9 μg/mL HOMA 4.18 ± 0.40 3.67 ± 0.36 12.16 1-4

FIG. 1 depicts the fasting glucose levels for the test subjects consuming the tested dietary supplement compositions over the course of the study (56 days). As shown, the test subjects reported an 8% decrease in fasting glucose levels over the course of the study.

Scored Questionnaire Results: Each test subject was asked to complete a questionnaire on Days 0, 28, and 56. In order to measure energy levels and satiety, each test subject was asked to rate his/her intensity of energy, intensity of fatigue, current degree of hunger, and current assessment of how much they could eat along a 100 mm horizontal line. The subjects completed the questionnaire by placing a vertical slash on the line corresponding to their sensation for each question. FIG. 2 shows how the fatigue intensity changed over the course of the study. As shown, test subjects using the tested dietary supplement compositions reported a 54% decrease in fatigue over the course of the study. FIG. 3 shows how the appetite intensity changed over the course of the study. As shown, test subjects using the tested dietary supplement compositions reported a 37% decrease in appetite intensity over the course of the study.

OTHER EMBODIMENTS

It is to be understood that while the invention has been described in conjunction with the detailed description thereof, the foregoing description is intended to illustrate and not limit the scope of the invention, which is defined by the scope of the appended claims. Other aspects, advantages, and modifications are within the scope of the following claims. 

1. A dietary supplement composition, comprising: a sweet potato extract; a chromium; and one or more ingredients selected from the group consisting of a mulberry extract, a green tea extract, a cinnamon extract, and a ginseng extract. 2-46. (canceled)
 47. A method for controlling blood glucose concentrations, the method comprising consuming a dietary supplement composition comprising: a sweet potato extract; a chromium; and one or more ingredients selected from the group consisting of a mulberry extract, a green tea extract, a cinnamon extract, and a ginseng extract.
 48. (canceled) 